John 9:32
Since the world began was it not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind.
Original Language Analysis
ἐκ
Since
G1537
ἐκ
Since
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
1 of 11
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
2 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
αἰῶνος
the world began
G165
αἰῶνος
the world began
Strong's:
G165
Word #:
3 of 11
properly, an age; by extension, perpetuity (also past); by implication, the world; specially (jewish) a messianic period (present or future)
ὅτι
that
G3754
ὅτι
that
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
6 of 11
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
ἤνοιξεν
opened
G455
ἤνοιξεν
opened
Strong's:
G455
Word #:
7 of 11
to open up (literally or figuratively, in various applications)
ὀφθαλμοὺς
the eyes
G3788
ὀφθαλμοὺς
the eyes
Strong's:
G3788
Word #:
9 of 11
the eye (literally or figuratively); by implication, vision; figuratively, envy (from the jealous side-glance)
Historical Context
Old Testament healing miracles never included opening eyes of the born blind. This was considered God's exclusive prerogative (Exodus 4:11). The unprecedented nature of the miracle demanded unprecedented conclusions about Jesus' identity.
Questions for Reflection
- Why is the unprecedented nature of this miracle significant for identifying Jesus?
- What unique works has Christ done that demand unique conclusions?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
'Since the world began was it not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind.' The man escalates his argument. This isn't just any miracle—it's unprecedented. No prophet, no rabbi, no one in history had healed congenital blindness. The uniqueness of the miracle demands unique explanation. Ordinary categories don't fit; only divine power suffices.